Strictly Come Dancing 'set for shorter run and later start' due to pandemic

\'Strictly Come Dancing\' is reportedly starting a month later than usual and running for just nine weeks.

The hugely popular BBC Latin and ballroom show - which usually lasts 13 weeks - is said to be scheduled to air from October 24 due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

A source told The Sun newspaper\'s Bizarre TV column: "BBC bosses are doing everything in their power to give the public as much Strictly as they possibly can and safely.

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"A heavily reduced schedule gives them a lot longer to pre-record certain segments to minimise risk.

"It does mean it will be starting much later in the year, and will finish very close to Christmas with the final currently scheduled for December 19."

The report comes after it was suggested professional dancers could isolate in a hotel together for two weeks to practice group dances.

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The pros are thought to be expected to start rehearsing dances at home before taking part in the joint isolation this month and then pre-recording group dances, as the BBC look to get this year\'s series on, despite the coronavirus pandemic.

A show spokesman said: "The BBC and the entire \'Strictly\' family are working hard to ensure everyone can enjoy some much needed \'Strictly\' sparkle later this year.

"Our professional dancers are set to start rehearsing remotely at the end of July. As we continue to follow the latest guidance from Public Health England and industry guidelines, we are considering isolating the dancers and key production members to enable our much-loved group numbers to continue.

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"We\'re incredibly proud of our professional dancers for their dedication to the show and their commitment to showcasing their love of dance to the nation.

"The safety of our cast and crew is of the utmost importance to us and further updates will be made in due course."